The Audre Lorde Project

Portrait of Audre Lorde by Robert Alexander, 1983.

Happy Women’s History Month! Black women from throughout the diaspora have made significant contributions to Black Studies. Audre Lorde (1934-1992) was a poet, essayist and activist who created a number of ground-breaking ideas about the relationship between race, class, gender and sexuality. Her most well-known quote comes from her classic collection of essays, Sister Outsider: “…the Master’s tools will never dismantle the Master’s house.” Lorde believed that activists of color needed to address all forms of oppression rather than seek inclusion into the elite for members of their particular group. She also advocated for radical political and cultural changes that would equalize power relations in our society.

For the past 15 years an organization founded in her name—The Audre Lorde Project—has carried forth her legacy. The ALP is a Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Two Spirit, Trans and Gender Non-Conforming (LGBTGNC) People of Color community organizing center in New York that addresses racism, sexism and homophobia by working for community wellness and social and economic justice. Their innovative programs include: the Safe Neighborhood Campaign, which addresses hate and police violence against the LGBTGNC community, and the 3rd Space Health and Wellness Collective.

The Audre Lorde Project recently celebrated their 15th anniversary with a special event as well as a Community Celebration collective photo exhibit and poem. You can support ALP in the following ways:

Become a Donor. You can donate online through Network for Good or by mailing in a check, money order or credit card contribution.

Make an in-kind donation. The Audre Lorde Project is always looking for computer equipment, digital cameras, video cameras, desks, movie projectors, televisions, office supplies (pens, notepads, paper, etc.), or your time! If you have an idea of something else you’d like to donate, let them know.

Make a gift of your Air Miles or Rewards Points. Did you know you can donate your Air Miles or Reward Points to the Audre Lorde Project? Email sevilla@alp.org to find out more information.